Google Photos has recently announced the expansion of its features by allowing the synchronization of private photos stored in the Locked Folder across various devices through cloud backup. This enhancement comes after the initial introduction of the Locked Folder in May 2021, which allowed Android users to secure private photos using a passcode. This feature prevented others from viewing the images within the Photos app or when displayed on a connected TV.
Formerly, these locked photos were confined to a single device, typically the user’s Android phone. However, they will now be accessible through cloud backup, granting users the convenience of accessing their personal photos from any of their devices. Additionally, the ability to establish a Locked Folder will be extended beyond Android devices, now available on iOS devices and the web as well.
You also have the flexibility to enable backup for the Locked Folder. This feature allows you to decide whether the contents of the folder should be synchronized to other devices. If you prefer to keep the backup off, you can easily do so.
The fundamental operation of the Locked Folder remains unchanged. The photos and videos kept in this folder will not appear in the main grid, Memories, or albums, and they will not surface in search results within Google Photos.
This latest update comes on the heels of the introduction of the Memories feature earlier this month, which employs AI in the Google Photos app to create a scrapbook-like experience. However, users are still eagerly anticipating a more significant release: the anticipated AI-powered Magic Editor, which was announced at Google’s developer conference earlier this year.
In addition to the alterations in the Locked Folder feature, Google is introducing an updated layout for the Settings page within the app. This revamped design is intended to streamline navigation to different sections related to privacy, backup, sharing, and notifications, according to the company’s announcement.
The refreshed settings page is currently accessible on both iOS and Android platforms. As for the Locked Folder modifications, the rollout of these changes will commence today.
